De Halve Maan Brewery Museum, Bruges (must see)

De Halve Maan is a historic, family-owned brewery. Its official history begins in 1856, when Henri Maes acquired the site. Beer is still brewed here, while bottling takes place outside the historic center. It is the last authentic family brewery still operating in the city center and is best known for producing Brugse Zot, Straffe Hendrik, and Blanche de Bruges.

The business has remained in the same family for six generations and is now managed by Xavier Vanneste. Over the years, successive generations have modernized the production process while maintaining the brewery’s traditional identity. Guided visits begin in the working brewing hall, where visitors learn about the ingredients and stages involved in producing beer. The route then passes through the historic and museum sections of the brewery, which display old brewing kettles, barrels, tools, and machinery used by previous generations. Modern audiovisual exhibits also explain the underground beer pipeline and bottling process.

Near the top of the building, visitors reach the rooftop, which offers a panoramic 360-degree view over Brugge’s towers and red-tiled roofs. At the end of the tour, adult participants receive one unfiltered beer in the brewery’s brasserie. They can choose Brugse Zot Blond, Brugse Zot Dubbel, or Straffe Hendrik Tripel.

Tip:
Advance booking is recommended, especially during busy periods. Because of the many stairs, visitors should wear suitable footwear and be aware that the full tour is not wheelchair accessible.